Mr. Maney ("Groups should focus time on causes, not criticisms," May 1) attacks Young Americans for Freedom using generalities and broad-brush statements, completely ignorant of the fact that it is that precise type of action he is complaining about. To paint all members of the MSA as terrorist supporters is to be horrendously obtuse. YAF, however, is subjected to this treatment simply because their views are conservative.

To his claims that we in the armed forces do not have proper body armor, it is important to note that the armor shortage was corrected four years ago. It is unreasonable to expect the military to keep surpluses on hand just in case a war starts. Production was rapidly increased, and the problem corrected.

Mr. Maney also suggests that only those who serve are capable of supporting the war or making decisions about it. If only members of the military -- who are overwhelmingly conservative -- were considered competent to decide the nation's posture on matters of war and peace, we would have an even more forward-leaning foreign policy. I'm comfortable letting the 82nd Airborne decide what we do about anti-American rogue states. Is he?

Stephen Johnson

Class of 2007